SHILLONG: Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Prestone Tynsong, has stated that the demand for resumption of coal mining cannot be resolved merely by writing a letter on making changes to the existing law.
Speaking to media persons on the demand of the revival of traditional coal mining activities, Tynsong said there is a need to understand that the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) is a Central legislation and not a State law.
He clarified that the implementation of the MMDR Act in Meghalaya, despite the state being under the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, is because it is a law enacted by the Central Government. He said the perception that the state government can simply amend or alter the Act is a misconception.
“If it was a State law, the state government could take necessary action. However, since it is a Central law, the matter requires consideration at the appropriate level,” Tynsong said.
The Deputy Chief Minister also urged people not to blame the government for the restrictions on coal mining, stating that law enforcement agencies are only implementing the provisions of existing laws.
On scientific mining, Tynsong said licences have already been issued to eligible applicants and clarified that the responsibility of commencing mining operations lies with the private companies or private entities that have obtained the necessary approvals.
He said the government cannot be held responsible for delays in mining activities since the state is not directly involved in coal extraction. “The government can only be blamed if it was undertaking mining operations itself, but that is not the case,” he said.
Tynsong further informed that a detailed presentation will be held next week by a team of experts, who will examine whether amendments to the MMDR Act are possible and explore the way forward regarding coal mining in the state.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the matter requires a careful examination of legal provisions and consultations with experts before any decision can be taken.
